WALGA President calls for councils to move forward with voluntary reform President of the Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA), Councillor Bill Mitchell, has said Western Australian councils should not be distracted by conflicting messages in relation to the Local Government structural reform agenda. He said the sector has been doing an outstanding job and is on track to present a diverse range of initiatives that will reform the sector. Councillor Mitchell applauded Western Australian Premier, Colin Barnett, for confirming there would not be legislation to force amalgamations. “There are a lot of opinions being expressed, but the Premier yesterday confirmed that State Government policy is for voluntary amalgamation,” he said. “It would be a disaster for Local Government and its communities if the sector looked to use divisive comments or anything else as an excuse not to work towards genuine and sustainable reform. “There is an opportunity for Local Government in Western Australia to actively participate in a voluntary reform process, which in many cases may involve amalgamations, but in all cases should involve demonstrated sustainability. “The sector overwhelmingly supported voluntary reform just last September, with the endorsement of the WALGA Systemic Sustainability Study final report, and it is apparent that this remains the most productive way forward.” For further information contact Councillor Mitchell on 0427 171 896.

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